Faith

Spiritual Vitamins

“Take your vitamins, watch your diet, exercise regularly.” I remember my mom’s stern voice giving these directions. How harsh these words of advice seemed at the time. Yet, now I realize her instructions and guidelines were filled with godly wisdom tainted with motherly love. She was attempting to prepare me for life. My desire for a healthy lifestyle has resulted in applying these few simple habits. “Teach me your way, O Lord, lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors,” says Psalm 27:11.

In the same way, when I let my trials and troubles draw me to Jesus, they remind me of my constant need for Him. It’s difficult to view our troubles as reminders to draw near to Him, but if we train our minds to transition from problem mode to prayer mode, it makes a huge difference—brief prayers, such as “Help me, Jesus. Fill me with you peace. Show me your way.” These requests are like spiritual nutrients, soul vitamins. The more we use these types of prayers, the healthier and happier we will be. “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,” says James 1:2.

The Holy Spirit will help guide us as we form our needs into prayers that make a difference. These prayers will flow from our hearts, and as we practice them, the enemy will flee and God will draw near. “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul,” says Psalm 143:8.